News and Opinions on Professional Wrestling

One to Watch: Mark Haskins

When WWE did their first ever United Kingdom Championship Tournament, it introduced the WWE Universe to a batch of young talent from across the pond. It gave us Tyler Bate, Pete Dunne, and a hint of Mark Andrews and Trent Seven. All of those names are ones that you will likely be hearing for quite some time, but there were quite a few wrestlers that didn’t get the chance to compete in it. One that stands out above all the rest that aren’t named Ospreay is Mark Haskins.

Haskins has traveled all around the world, including stops in TNA and PWG. He has held titles all across the globe and is currently a World Champion in three different companies. Where he is most well known, however, is from his time in PROGRESS where he has held not only the tag team titles but their World title as well. Unfortunately, that title reign was cut short due to a serious neck injury, but the match in which he won the belt is still regarded as one of the best matches in PROGRESS history as he beat both Marty Scurll and Tommy End, aka Alistair Black.

The reason I say that Haskins is one to watch is that his style isn’t one commonly seen in today’s wrestling environment. He isn’t the biggest guy in the ring, standing at barely 5’10”. What he lacks in size, however, he makes up for with violent strikes and technical wizardry. He uses all of his limbs to wear an opponent down, and the impact of his strikes normally echo throughout the arena. His strength is also impressive especially when he executes a perfect roll through into a deadlift Death Valley Driver. He is a rare combination of speed and power, and if you look away for even a moment, chances are you will miss something pretty spectacular.

What he has made his name on though is easily his submission ability. His bridging armbar seems likely to tear an arm clear off the body, and his Sharpshooter is a mixture of Bret Hart and Chris Jericho as he tends to lean back as far as his body allows. Having had the chance to witness him perform live, I can tell you that there hasn’t been a match of his that hasn’t lived up to the hype.

If you want to see for yourself, I, of course, would recommend subscribing to PROGRESS on Demand because you will see him and others at their absolute best. If you need a little convincing before giving up your hard earned cash, YouTube is home to some great matches such as Haskins versus DJZ, and Haskins versus Martin Kirby. Take the time to seek the matches out, you won’t regret it.

If you have a wrestler, you think should be featured as One to Watch, feel free to leave a comment!